Fingertip Mouse and Base

ABSTRACT

The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a system that includes a tracking device to generate movement information for use in moving a user interface object on a graphical user interface. The tracking device is configured to receive at least a portion of a user&#39;s finger. The system also includes a base device configured to receive the tracking device. The base device is configured to translate movement of the base device relative to an adjacent surface for use in moving the user interface object.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/266,498, filed Nov. 3, 2005, andtitled “Fingertip Mouse,” which claims priority from ProvisionalApplication No. 60/625,254, filed Nov. 5, 2004, the entirety of each areincorporated here by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This instant specification relates to computer peripherals, and, moreparticularly, to peripherals used to track movement.

BACKGROUND

Some current computer mice are constructed in a size that approximatesthe size of a human had. A mouse can be moved across a pad using thepalm of a hand and may have one or more buttons to use in makingselections that affect an attached computer. Some mice have a trackballthat engages the pad to move a cursor on a computer.

SUMMARY

In general, this document describes a computer peripheral for trackingmovement.

In a first general aspect, a computer peripheral system is described.The system includes a tracking device to generate movement informationfor use in moving a user interface object on a graphical user interface.The tracking device is configured to receive at least a portion of auser's finger. The system also includes a base device configured toreceive the tracking device. The base device is configured to translatemovement of the base device relative to an adjacent surface for use inmoving the user interface object.

In a second general aspect, an apparatus is described. The apparatusincludes a base device to receive a tracking device configured forplacement on a user's finger. The tracking device generates movementinformation for use in moving a user interface object on a userinterface. The base device is configured to translate movement of thebase device relative to an adjacent surface for use in moving the userinterface object.

In a third general aspect, an apparatus is described that includes ahousing having a finger holding portion configured to receive a portionof a finger of a user and a movement tracker to generate movementinformation based on movement of the housing relative to an adjacentsurface. The movement information is configured to move a first userinterface object on a display. The apparatus also includes a pressuresensitive switch coupled to the housing and configured to make aselection of a second user interface object on the display when theswitch is pressed against the adjacent surface.

The systems and techniques described here may provide one or more of thefollowing advantages. A tracking device can be provided that is small,portable, and initiative to use to control a cursor on a user interface.A base that receives the tracking device can be used to simulateconventional computer mice. The base can provide a convenient chargingmechanism for the tracking device when the tracking device is insertedin the base. Cost of production can be decreased by configuring the baseto use the tracking device's tracking sensors instead of includingindependent sensors in the base.

The details of one or more embodiments of the fingertip mouse and basefeature are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the descriptionbelow. Other features and advantages of the fingertip mouse and basefeature will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from theclaims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1. is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system forcontrolling a cursor displayed on a user interface of a computer system.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system including abase device.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a trackingdevice.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a fingerretention mechanism feature of the tracking device used to receive auser's finger.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a featureof the tracking device used to receive a user's finger.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of devicecomponents used for selection.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram depicting several implementations ofscrolling features of the tracking device.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram depicting several additionalimplementations of a scrolling feature.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram depicting an implementation of a basewhere a tracking device is received at a frontal portion of the base.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram depicting a second implementation of thebase where a tracking device is received at a middle portion of thebase.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram depicting a third implementation of thebase where a tracking device is received at a back portion of the base.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram depicting several implementations of alid feature of a base.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a base,which includes an opening that allows a tracking device access to anadjacent surface.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram depicting a connection component of asystem used to relay information from a tracking device to a computersystem.

FIG. 15 is a schematic of one implementation of a base storage feature.

FIG. 16. is a schematic diagram depicting alternative implementations ofthe tracking device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Implementations are described of a system for controlling a cursordisplayed on a user interface. In certain implementations, the systemcan include a tracking device that translates movement information foruse by a computer system in controlling the cursor. Optionally, thetracking device can be housed and work in conjunction with a basedevice, which is described below. In certain implementations, thetracking device is configured to be worn on a computer user's finger(where the term finger includes a thumb), and may communicate wirelesslywith the computer system. The base can be configured to have the shapeand functionality of a conventional computer input peripheral, such as acomputer mouse. The tracking device can be inserted in the base. Incertain implementations, the base uses the tracking device hardware totrack movements for transmission to the computer system. For example,the integrated base and tracking device may be used in lieu of using thetracking device alone if a user prefers a conventional input device tothe tracking device that is configured to be placed on the user'sfinger.

FIG. 1. is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system 100 forcontrolling a cursor displayed on a user interface of a computer system102. The system 100 includes a tracking device 104 that detects andtransmits movement information, and a base 106, which may among otherthings, receive the tracking device 104. Additionally, the system 100can include components or peripherals such as a keyboard 108 forentering information, a monitor 110 to display information such as thecursor, or various other types of peripherals.

In certain implementations, the tracking device 104 can communicatewirelessly with the computer system 102. For example, the trackingdevice 104 can fit on a user's finger 112 and can communicate with thecomputer system 102 using a wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth. Usingthis method of communication may permit a user to freely position thetracking device 104.

In certain implementations, the base 106 can communicate with thecomputer system 102 independent of the tracking device 104. For example,the base 106 can contain its own tracking mechanism to allow the base106 to function as a conventional computer mouse without the trackingdevice 104. Alternatively, in other implementations, the base 106 cancommunicate with the computer system 102 in conjunction with thetracking device 104. For example, in certain implementations, if thetracking device 104 is inserted into the base 106, the base 106 maydisable its own tracking mechanism and make use of the trackingmechanism included with the tracking device 104.

In certain other implementations, the base 106 may not include its owntracking mechanism, but uses the tracking device's tracking mechanismwhen the tracking device is inserted in the base.

In certain implementations, the base 106 can dock with the trackingdevice 104, as shown in FIG. 2. In one implementation, if the trackingdevice 104 is inserted into the base 106, the components can functiontogether as a single tracking device 104, for example, as a computermouse. By operating as a single component, the tracking device 104 andthe base 106 may provide a data input experience substantially similarto that of a conventional computer mouse, which may be more familiar tocertain users. Additionally, in certain implementations, by dockingtogether with the base 106, the tracking device 104 can, for example,recharge its power supply or share tracking system components.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary system 200including a base device 202. In certain implementations, the base 202can be connected to a computer via a wired connection, such as through aUSB (Universal Serial Bus), RS-232, or PS-2 connection. As depicted inFIG. 2, the base 202 can receive the tracking device 204. In certainimplementations, while the tracking device 204 is connected to the base202, power can be delivered through the USB connection to chargerechargeable batteries within the tracking device 204.

In some implementations, the tracking device 204 can include a trackingmechanism, which can be used by the base 202. For example, the trackingdevice 204 may include an optic sensor that monitors movement andtransmits movement to the base 202. In an alternate embodiment, the base202 can have its own tracking mechanism. In some implementations, if thetracking device 204 is inserted into the base 202, the trackingmechanism for the base 202 can be disabled, allowing the base 202 to usethe tracking mechanism of the tracking device 204.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a trackingdevice 302. The tracking device 302 may include one or more components,such as a battery 304, power supply components 306, an antenna 308, anoptical sensor 310, a lens 312, a select switch 314, charging contacts316, and a scroll wheel 318. The tracking device 302 can be configuredfor placement on a user's finger 317. In certain implementations, thetracking device 302 may include a housing into which a user inserts hisor her finger 317. The housing may include one or more retentionmechanisms to hold the user's finger 317 in place. Example retentionmechanisms are described in more detail in association with FIG. 4.

In certain implementations, a select switch 314 can be added to the tipof the tracking device 302. The select switch 314, in someimplementations, permits a user to select items on a user interface. Forexample, a user can position a cursor over a hyperlink displayed in aweb browser and select the hyperlink by activating the select switch314. The select switch 314 can be activated if the user applies pressureto a tip of the tracking device 302 in a downward movement against anadjacent surface. In certain other implementations, the select switch314 can be located inside the tracking device 302 near the opticalsensor 310, and can be in direct contact with the user's finger 317. Incertain other implementations, the select switch 314 can be located onthe outside of the tracking device 302. For example, the select switch314 can be integrated with the scroll wheel 318.

In other implementations, the select switch 314 can include a rockerswitch, where scrolling can be accomplished by pressing the switchforward and backward or upwards and downwards.

In yet other implementations, the select switch can be implemented usingan accelerometer. For example, when a user taps a surface once, theaccelerometer can sense the movement and register a selection analogousto a single-click by a conventional mouse button. The accelerometer canalso detect multiple movements within a defined period. The multiplemovements, such as a user tapping a surface twice in rapid succession,may indicate a particular type of selection, such as a double-clickselection.

In certain implementations, the tracking device 302 can include a powersource, such as the battery 304, which can be recharged by the base 202.For example, the tracking device 302 may recharge the battery 304 whenthe charging contacts 316 make contact with the base 202 as the trackingdevice 302 is inserted into the base 202. Additionally, power supplycomponents 306 can regulate the battery 304 recharging process. In someimplementations, the battery 304 is placed in a portion of the trackingdevice that is positioned below a user's inserted finger. Thispositioning may improve ergonomics of the tracking device becauselocating the battery under the finger balances the weight of the batterywithout having the battery's weight resting on top of the user's finger.

As mentioned previously, in certain implementations, the tracking device302 may include the antenna 308 for communicating with the computersystem 102. For example, in certain implementations, the antenna 308 maybe configured for placement inside the exterior body of the trackingdevice 302. In certain other implementations, the antenna 308 may beconfigured for placement outside the body of the tracking device 302.The antenna 308 may transmit data to a receiver of the computer system102. For example, the antenna 308 may transmit movement data, batterystatus data, input data, output data, scroll selection data, or othertypes of data to a receive of the computer system 102. In certainimplementations, the antenna 308 can transmit the data wirelessly usingRadio Frequency (RF) protocol to a RF receiver connected to a USB portof the computer system 102. In yet other implementations, the trackingdevice 302 can transmit data to the base, which transmits the data tothe computer system 102 using a wireless or wired connection.

In certain implementations, the tracking device 302 can include a lens312 for optically tracking the movement of the tracking device 302. Thelens 312 may, for example, direct infrared light towards an adjacentsurface in a similar fashion to the lens included in a traditionalcomputer mouse. In some implementations, the lens 312 may be constructedfrom glass or plastic materials. The lens 312 may also, for example,protect an optical sensor 310 from debris or unwanted contact.

In certain implementations, the tracking device 302 can include theoptical sensor 310 which uses movement captured by the lens to generatemovement information. The optical sensor 310 can, for example, alsotransmit the movement information for use by the computer system. Thecomputer system 102 can use the transmitted information to drive acursor. For example, the optical sensor 310 may use infrared technologyto track movement by monitoring changes in the reflection of light offof an adjacent surface.

In some implementations, the tracking mechanism, such as the opticalsensor 310, is sized so that a user can easily manipulate objects on auser interface. For example, movement of the sensor across one inch ofan adjacent surface can correspond to movement across the entiredisplayed user interface. The tracking mechanism in the tracking devicecan be sufficiently small so that it can be easily and precisely movedone inch.

In other implementations, the sensor 310 can include a trackball,rollerball, scroll wheel, laser based sensor, or accelerometer to trackmovement. The movement translation components may be used separately orin combination with these, or other exemplary components.

In other example implementations, the tracking device 302 may includebuttons not shown in FIG. 3, which may provide additional methods forselection, input, or other types of functions. For example, in oneimplementation, buttons can be located on the outside of the trackingdevice 302 near the user's thumb. In certain implementations, a firstbutton may provide selection functions. Additionally, in certainimplementations, a second button may prompt the display of userinterface menus. For example, selecting the second button while viewingan image on a web page can prompt a web browser to display a menu thatincludes options, such as “save image as . . . ,” “set as desktopbackground . . . ,” “properties,” etc.

The tracking device 302 can be constructed using various materials suchas lightweight plastic, fiberglass, or other types of materials, and thedevice 302 may be implemented using various form factors. For example,the tracking device can enclose the user's finger 317, or have openareas in the front, sides, or back, which may allow the escape ofmoisture and provide comfort to the user.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a fingerretention mechanism feature of the tracking device 104 used to receive auser's finger. In some implementations, the tracking device 104 can beconfigured to receive a user's finger using mechanical means. Forexample, the tracking device 104 can include a flexible tab 402 thatassists in holding the user's finger in place within the tracking device104. In other implementations, the tracking device 104 can include aninterior sleeve 404, which can assist in holding the tracking device 104in place on a user's finger. In certain implementations the sleeve 404may be offered in sizes ranging from small to large to suit a variety ofusers. The sleeve can be removed and a different size sleeve inserted tocustomize the fit for a particular user.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a featureof the tracking device 104 used to receive a user's finger. In certainimplementations, the tracking device 104 can be configured to include afinger retaining hinge component 502. The retaining component may beproduced, for example, from materials such as neoprene, saneprene, orfoam. In certain implementations, the hinge component can be configuredin several positions or locations. The user can insert their finger intothe tracking device 104, which may include the retaining hinge component502. Once inserted, the retaining hinge component 502 may hold thetracking device 104 to the user's finger by applying pressure. Incertain implementations, the hinge component 502 can be produced fromrubber, and may include springs, which press the hinge component 502around the circumference of the finger.

In other implementations, the tracking device 104 may include a fingerretaining interior ring component. In an exemplary implementation, thering is made of a material similar to a gel. The ring can secure thetracking device 104 to the user's inserted finger by applying pressurearound the circumference of the finger. If the ring is malleable (e.g.,made of a gel) it can conform to the outer surface of the user's finger,which may result in a more comfortable fit.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of devicecomponents used for selection. FIG. 6 depicts a front and side view ofthe tracking device 104. In certain implementations, the tracking device104 can include a scroll wheel 602 that may be used for navigation on acomputer system. In other implementations, the tracking device 104 mayinclude one or more selection buttons 604 to select informationdisplayed by a computer system.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram depicting several implementations ofscrolling features of the tracking device. As stated earlier, thetracking device 104 can be configured with various components orfeatures for controlling movement of a cursor on a computer system. Incertain implementations the tracking device 104 includes a scrollingmechanism and selection buttons oriented in a generally horizontal planerelative to a position in which the tracking device is upright. In otherimplementations, the tracking device 104 can include a scrollingmechanism and selection buttons oriented in a generally vertical plane.In other implementations, the tracking device 104 may include ascrolling mechanism oriented in a horizontal plane, and may includeselection buttons located vertically relative to the scrollingmechanism.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram depicting several additionalimplementations of a scrolling feature. In certain implementations, thetracking device 104 can include a track ball component 802 that canscroll in a limited number of directions. For example, the track ballcomponent 802 may scroll in a single direction or in the reverse of thatdirection.

In other implementations, the tracking device 104 can include atrackball component 804 that has multiple functions. For example, thetrack ball component may scroll in multiple directions, and a user maypress the trackball component 804 to make selections of objectsdisplayed in a user interface.

In other implementations, the tracking device 104 can include ascrolling mechanism 806 that can scroll and be oriented in multipledirections. The position of the scrolling mechanism 806 can bemaintained after adjustment by applying resistance supplied by amovement limiting mechanism, such as a set of splines surrounding thescrolling mechanism 804. For example, the user can adjust the scrollingmechanism 806 to a position that is a comfortable scrolling position forthe user. The resistance of the splines prevents the scrolling mechanism806 from slipping from that position.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an implementation of a base 902where a tracking device is received at a frontal portion of the base902. In an exemplary implementation, the tracking device 904 can beconfigured to protrude partially outside the front of the base 902 toallow the user's finger quick access for removal from the base 902. Inanother implementation, the base 902 may include other components thatrequire the components be located in the middle, or back locations ofthe base 902. For example, the base 902 may include tracking mechanismcomponents that occupy the space in the middle and back locations of thebase 902.

In some implementations, if the user wants to remove the tracking device904 and place it in the base 902, the user can place the tracking device904 into a cavity of the base 902, and the user can move his fingerbackwards to secure the tracking device 904 to the base 902. In someimplementations, the based has securing components, such as protrusions,that are used to snap the tracking device into place. After the usersecures the tracking device 904 to the base 902, the user can remove hisfinger from the tracking device 904. If the user wants to remove thetracking device 904 from the base 902, the user can place his fingerinside the tracking device 904 and move their finger forward to releasethe tracking device from the securing components.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram depicting a second implementation of thebase where a tracking device is received at a middle portion of thebase. The base 902 can be implemented so that it receives the trackingdevice 904 at a middle section of the base 902, which may facilitate theplacement of other components at the front or back locations of the base902. For example, buttons similar to those included with a traditionalcomputer mouse may be configured at the front of the base 902. Inanother example, a USB Key 906 can be stored in the base 902. The USBKey 906 may, for example, be used by the computer system to communicatewirelessly with the tracking device 904, when the tracking device 904 isinserted into the base 902. The base 902 may communicate with thecomputer system using other methods (e.g., wired). In this situation,the storage of the USB Key 906 in the front or rear portion of the basemay prevent the base from receiving the tracking device 904 at either ofthese locations, so the base can include a cavity in the middle portionto receive the tracking device.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram depicting a third implementation of thebase 902 where a tracking device 904 is received at a back portion ofthe base 902. In this implementation, a cavity may be formed at the backof the base 902 so that the tracking device can fit entirely into thebase 902, for example, when the base has a smaller form factor near thefront of the base than near the rear of the base.

As depicted by FIG. 9, FIG. 10, and FIG. 11, the base 902 can receivethe tracking device 904 at many locations. In another exampleimplementation of the base 902 (not shown in the figures) the trackingdevice and be received at a side location. For example, the trackingdevice can attach the other base's side using a clipping or snapmechanism. In certain implementations, the side location may provideincreased internal space within the base 902 for additional components.In other implementations, the side location may permit the base 902 tohave a smaller form factor.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram depicting several implementations of alid covering feature of the base 902 used to receive a tracking device904. The lid 906 may be opened to insert the tracking device 904 withinthe base 902. In certain implementations, the lid 906 may include aspring mechanism to open the lid that can be activated when pressed by auser. Additionally, the lid 906 may be closed to protect the trackingdevice 904 from debris, or to provide a more comfortable grip for theuser's hand. In certain implementations, the lid 906 may be held closedby an included latching mechanism. Additionally the lid 906 may slidewithin a portion of the base 902 to allow access to a cavity of the basein which the tracking device 904 is inserted. In other implementations,the lid 906 may be removed and stored, for example, in the bottom of thebase 902.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram depicting one implementation of a base1302, which includes an opening 1304 that allows a tracking device 904access to an adjacent surface. In certain implementations, the base 1302can use the tracking mechanism of the tracking device 904 by allowingthe optics, track ball, or laser access to the adjacent surface throughthe opening 1304 in the bottom of the base 1302.

In certain implementations, the base 1302 can use the tracking mechanismof the tracking device 904. For example, the base 1302 can disable itsown tracking mechanism, and use the tracking mechanism of the trackingdevice 904 instead. The base 1302 may include circuitry that connectsthe tracking device's tracking mechanism to the base 1302. For example,the base may include prongs that contact plates on the tracking device904 when the tracking device 904 is inserted in the base 1302. Thetracking device 904 can transmit movement information through thisconnection to the base 1302. In some implementations, this connection tothe base can also be used to charge the tracking device using powerdelivered or originating from the base.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram depicting a connection component 1402 ofa system used to relay information from a tracking device 1302 to acomputer system 102. In some implementations, the connection component1402 is a USB key. For example, the base 1502 can include a cord thatconnects to the USB Key 1402. An interface between the USB key 1402 andthe base 1502 can be proprietary so that a user cannot easily plug thebase 1502 into unintended receptacles, such as PS-2 ports on a computingdevice. In certain implementations, the cord can recoil inside the base1502 or be wrapped up and stored in a cavity located underneath the base1502.

In certain implementations, the cord can be detached from the base 1502.Unplugging the cord from the base 1502 can, for example, permit the base1502 to be more conveniently stored. In other implementations, the base1502 may not have a cord, but communicates wirelessly with the computersystem 102.

In some implementations, the tracking device 1302 may have batteriesthat are charged when the tracking device 1304 is inserted in the base1502. For example, the base can receive power through a cordedconnection to the computer system 102. The power can be transferred fromthe base to the tracking device for charging the batteries. In otherimplementations, the base is not corded, but instead receives power fromdisposable or rechargeable batteries.

In some other implementations, the connection component 1402 can sendand receive information to and from the computer system 102. Forexample, the connection component 1402 can be a wireless transceiverthat transmits and receives information from the base device (or thetracking device) and sends the information to the computer system 102.In some implementations, the tracking device can transmit informationwirelessly, while the base device transmits information to the computersystem 102 via a wired connection.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of one implementation of a base storagefeature. In certain implementations, the USB key 1402 can be storedwith, or connected to the base 1502. For example, the USB key 1402 canbe stored in the bottom of the base 1502, where the base 1502 mayinclude a holding mechanism such as tabs or clamps. In addition to thefunctionality described above, in certain implementations, the USB keycan store information including, for example, software drivers for thetracking device 104 or other data files that can be accessed by thecomputer system 102.

FIG. 16. is a schematic diagram depicting alternative implementations ofthe tracking device 104. FIG. 16 shows an implementation where thetracking device is configured without a tracking mechanism at the tip ofthe tracking device 104. This may permit a user's finger 1604 to extendthrough the tracking device 104 held on the user's finger 1604, forexample, using a flexible clamping mechanism 1606. Allowing the user'sfinger 1604 to extend through the tracking device 104 may allow normaluse of the finger for tasks, such as typing on a computer keyboard.

The tracking device of FIG. 16 also includes a trackball component 1602,which can have multiple functions. For example, the track ball component1602 may navigate a cursor on a user interface or perform scrollingfunctions. Additionally, a user may press the trackball component 1602(e.g., using an adjacent finger or thumb) to make selections of objectsdisplayed in a user interface.

Although a few implementations have been described in detail above,other modifications are possible. For example, in certainimplementations, the tracking device 104 can include a LCD (liquidcrystal display) component for inputting information into, or outputtinginformation from the computer system or the tracking device. Forexample, the LCD screen may display “status information” for thetracking device, such as charge status. In some implementations, the LCDscreen may be located on the tracking device 104 in locations as theside facing the user's thumb or other locations at which a user couldview the display.

In other implementations, the inner portion of the tracking device thatreceives a user's finger can include surface relief structures, such asventing ribbing, channels, dimpling, etc. This may provide sensorfeedback to a user to limit fatigue, control sweating, and release heat.Additionally, the inner portion may include a conical shape that narrowstowards the tip of the tracking device. This may ensure finger retentionby the use of pressure points and finger friction against the narrowinginner portion of the tracking device.

In yet other implementations, the tracking mechanisms (e.g., opticalsensors) for the tracking device can be located so that the tilt of themechanism is ergonomic. For example, when a user inserts her finger inthe tracking device, optical sensors are placed on the device so that ina natural position of the finger (e.g., resting position), the sensorsare neither tilted to the right or the left, but are substantiallyparallel to the adjacent surface.

In other implementations, the tracking mechanism for the device islocated on a swivel so that it can move into a position substantiallyparallel to the adjacent surface even if the user's positioning of thetracking device would not place the tracking mechanism in asubstantially parallel position without the swivel.

In some implementations, the base can charge the tracking device using ahousehold current instead of through a connection to a computing device.For example, a cord for the base can be inserted into a householdelectrical outlet, which provides power to the tracking device wheninserted into the base. In other implementations, the base can beconfigured to include a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery) forcharging the tracking device. For example, the battery can receive acharge by plugging the base into a USB or standard electrical outlet. Abattery of the tracking device can then be charged by the base's batterywhen the tracking device is inserted into the base. In otherimplementations, the tracking device may be inserted or coupled to acharger that is separate from the base. This charger may receive itpower from a variety of sources including a household electrical outlet,batteries, or a computer's power supply unit (e.g., through a USBconnection).

In some implementations, the base can be secured to a side of a laptopcomputer or keyboard using a clamping mechanism. One end of the clampingmechanism can be configured to attach to the keyboard or laptop computerand the other end of the clamping mechanism can secure the base. Forexample, the clamping mechanism can clamp to the side of a keyboardusing a vice-like mechanism.

In some implementations, the clamping mechanism can connect to the baseusing a male-to-female connection. For example, prongs may extend outfrom the clamping mechanism and mate with ports in the base. In someimplementations, the prongs can be flexible plastic, or some type ofhooks.

In some implementations, the base can be large enough to houseadditional components besides the tracking device, such as the lid andthe USB Key. For example, the lid and the USB Key can be stored in thebottom of the base.

In some implementations, the base can include light emitting diodes(LEDs) to indicate the charging status of the tracking device. If theoption of a rechargeable battery in the base is included, an LED can beincluded, for example, to indicate its charge status as well.

In other implementations, the USB Key can be inserted into a computerUSB slot and communicate wirelessly to the tracking device whileconnected via cord to the base. Also, the tracking device and the basecan be configured to communicate wirelessly with the computer withoutusing the cord.

In some implementations, a holder component can be used to hold thetracking device. The holder component can be used independent from thebase. The holder can be attached to a keyboard, computer display, orcomputing device component using a clamp, clip, or various othersecuring mechanisms. In some implementations, the holder can includecharging tabs and a cord that connects to a USB Port or the USB Key portfor charging. In another implementation, the base's cord may connect toa household outlet for receiving power.

In yet other implementations, a second tracking device can be used inconjunction with a first tracking device to control one or more userinterface elements. For example, a tracking device can be worn on onefinger of each hand of a user. In this example, the user can use thetracking devices to manipulate interface objects, such asthree-dimensional objects, by spinning rotating both fingers that aresecured to the tracking devices. In other examples, the tracking devicescan be used to manipulate objects in a video games, for example movingone finger with a first tracking device causes a first character action,moving the second finger with another tracking device causes a secondcharacter action, and moving both the first and second fingerssimultaneously causes a third character action.

In yet other examples, a user having a tracking device on a finger ofeach hand can use selection buttons on each of the tracking devices tomanipulate displayed objects, such as video game characters.

In certain implementations, a cord for the base device connects to theUSB key using a non-standard USB connection. This may prevent a userfrom inadvertently plugging the based device directly into a USB port onthe computer.

Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer peripheral system comprising: atracking device to generate movement information for use in moving auser interface object on a graphical user interface, wherein thetracking device is configured to receive at least a portion of a user'sfinger; and a base device configured to receive the tracking device,wherein the base device is configured to translate movement of the basedevice relative to an adjacent surface for use in moving the userinterface object.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the tracking devicecomprises a first tracking mechanism for determining movement used togenerate the movement information.
 3. The system of claim 2, furthercomprising a selection mechanism configured to disable and enable thefirst tracking mechanism.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the trackingmechanism comprises a roller ball, a trackball, an optical sensor, or alaser.
 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the tracking mechanismcomprises an optical sensor.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein thetracking device further comprises a optical mount for mounting at leasta portion of the optical sensor, wherein the optical mount is configuredto tilt so that the portion of the optical sensor remains within anoperative angle range relative to a surface used to determine themovement of the tracking device.
 7. The system of claim 2, wherein thebase device comprises a second tracking mechanism for determiningmovement of the base device relative to the adjacent surface.
 8. Thesystem of claim 7, wherein the second tracking mechanism for the basedevice is disabled when the tracking device is received.
 9. The systemof claim 2, wherein the base device uses the first tracking mechanism totranslate movement of the base device relative to the adjacent surfacewhen the tracking device is received.
 10. The system of claim 1, whereinthe tracking device further comprises a scrolling mechanism to generatesecond movement information based on manipulation of the scrollingmechanism by a second finger of the user.
 11. The system of claim 10,wherein the scrolling mechanism has an adjustable orientation.
 12. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the tracking device comprises a liner locatedwithin the tracking device and configured generate friction or pressureused to secure the tracking device to the received portion of the user'sfinger.
 13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second trackingdevice to generate second movement information for use in moving theuser interface object on the graphical user interface.
 14. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising a connection key for establishing acommunication channel between the tracking device or the base device anda display device that displays the graphical user interface.
 15. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein the connection key comprises a wirelessreceiver that transmits the movement information from the trackingdevice to the display device.
 16. The system of claim 14, wherein theconnection key comprises a wired connector that transmits informationfrom the base device to the display device.
 17. The system of claim 16,wherein the connection key has an interface to connect to the basedevice comprising a non-standard universal serial bus connection. 18.The system of claim 14, wherein the base device further comprises astorage section for storing the connection key.
 19. The system of claim1, wherein the tracking device further comprises rechargeable batteriesconfigured to be charged when the tracking device is inserted in thebase device.
 20. The system of claim 1, wherein the tracking devicefurther comprises a display screen or light emitting diodes configuredto indicate a status.
 21. The system of claim 1, wherein the trackingdevice is configured to allow a tip of the received user's finger toprotrude from the tracking device.
 22. The system of claim 1, whereinthe tracking device further comprises a mechanism configured toreceiving user input for generating the movement information for use inmoving the user interface object and configured to make selections ofother user interface objects on the graphical user interface.
 23. Thesystem of claim 22, wherein the mechanism is located on the trackingdevice so that when the tracking device is placed on an index finger ofthe user, the mechanism is accessible to a thumb adjacent to the indexfinger.
 24. An apparatus comprising: a base device to receive a trackingdevice configured for placement on a user's finger, wherein the trackingdevice generates movement information for use in moving a user interfaceobject on a user interface, wherein the base device is configured totranslate movement of the base device relative to an adjacent surfacefor use in moving the user interface object.
 25. An apparatuscomprising: a housing having a finger holding portion configured toreceive a portion of a finger of a user; a movement tracker to generatemovement information based on movement of the housing relative to anadjacent surface, wherein the movement information is configured to movea first user interface object on a display; and a pressure sensitiveswitch coupled to the housing and configured to make a selection of asecond user interface object on the display when the switch is pressedagainst the adjacent surface.